On March 21, 2025, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who had won the December 2024 election, was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president. The following day, she appointed Lucia Witbooi as Vice President, making Namibia the first African country to have both female presidents and vice presidents.
Like much of the world, African politics has been predominantly male-dominated for decades. While women have taken on roles as ministers, legislators, activists, and executives, it has been rare for them to hold both of the highest positions of power simultaneously. Namibia has now rewritten this narrative, marking a significant milestone for female representation and inclusion in Africa and beyond.
Meet Vice President Lucia Witbooi
Lucia Witbooi, born on March 21, 1961, in Gabes, Namibia, has been in Parliament since 2010. She has served as Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security. Before that, Witbooi dedicated 27 years to teaching in the Hardap Region’s classrooms, where she worked her way up to become Head of Department at Dr. W.M. Jod Primary School.
Throughout her political career, she has championed gender equality, child welfare, and societal progress. As the Deputy Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, she implemented programs to reduce gender-based violence and empower women through economic and educational opportunities. As Minister, she also focused on improving public safety and streamlining immigration processes. Now, as Vice President, Witbooi has been tasked with overseeing issues affecting marginalised communities and people with disabilities.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah appoints eight female ministers
After her swearing-in, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reduced the number of ministries from 21 to 14 to cut costs and enhance efficiency. Of these 14 ministers, eight are women. The president also implemented significant structural changes. The Ministry of Trade has been moved under the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation to promote economic diplomacy.
Additionally, industrialisation responsibility has been merged with the Ministry of Mines and Energy to ensure that mineral resources contribute to economic growth. The emerging oil and gas sector management has also been placed under the Office of the President to ensure the benefits reach the people.
Promoting gender inclusion in African politics
Seeing two women leading a nation is inspiring, proving that leadership is not limited by gender. Namibia is challenging governments across the continent to step up, rethink leadership, and embrace inclusivity at the highest levels.
